ST ANSELM’S college in Cornwall reaffirmed its national cross-country dominance when its Intermediate Boys’ team ran to victory in the English Schools cup final in Newquay, Cornwall, on December 5.
Having been crowned national junior champions in 2008, both junior and intermediate teams quali fied for the national final with high expectations. The historic double was completed when the Intermediate Boys finished with a total score of 60 points, defeating teams from Southend High School (65 points), and the Judd School, Tonbridge (79 points).
The highlight of this national title was the indi vidual silver medal place achieved by Matthew Byrne, who was supported by Daniel Jarvis (10th) William Reynolds (16th) and Andrew Desmond (32nd).
Non-scoring athletes Matthew Westby and Jo Jollie also finished in 47th and 48th places to crown a superb victory. Daniel, Matthew and Jo were members of the victorious junior team last year.
James Horman, head of athletics, said: “To complete the double with a different group of athletes is special. All credit goes to the nine lads who have worked so hard during the past eight weeks. The team has responded to the challenge and all their hard work has paid off.”